Projectile Material Reclamation Platform with Integrated Paper and Digital Targeting Systems

ABSTRACT

A projectile collection system that includes slanted and vertical surfaces made of coated mesh fiberglass materials to decelerate projectiles in a manner where the projectile material suffers no deformation, allowing for reuse or recycling of the projectile material. Six impact deflection element panels are situated to deflect, decelerate, reflect, suppress and collect the projectile material as it travels into the opening of the system and finally rests at the bottom using only gravity. A continuous scrolling paper target system with each successive target face being scrolled remotely by the shooter may be attached to the top entry area of the system for use. The target faces may be printed on rolls of paper that scroll to the next target image on the paper roll to allow the shooter to shoot continuously without having to return to the target area to manually replace flesh individual targets.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a projectile collection system thatcomprises slanted and vertical surfaces that in one embodiment are madeof a coated mesh fiberglass material that can be used to decelerateprojectiles in a manner where the projectile material suffers nodeformation, allowing for reuse and/or recycling of the projectilematerial. In one embodiment, six impact panels are situated to deflect,decelerate, reflect, suppress and collect the projectile material as ittravels into the opening of the system. In an embodiment, the projectilematerial can be collected from the bottom of the system after it hasfallen there due to gravity. In an embodiment, the present invention mayinclude a continuous scrolling paper target system with a plurality oftargets wherein each successive target face can be scrolled remotely bythe shooter. In an embodiment, the target(s) can be attached to the topentry area of the system for use. In an embodiment, the target faces areprinted on rolls of paper that scroll to the next target image on thepaper roll to allow the shooter to shoot continuously without having toreturn to the target area to manually replace fresh individual targets.In another aspect, a video panel monitor can be attached at the rear ofthe entryway for paperless targeting capabilities. In an embodiment,transparent ballistic resistant panels allow for ballistic simulationsusing any of a plurality of digital media sources, which in anembodiment allows the use and view of video projection through theentryway of the system.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A great number of targets and traps for BB gun-type use have beendesigned over the years, but very few have entered mass usage around theworld. The designs have been rudimentary, and for those that haveexisted, they have been made of heavy materials making them notportable. Further, because of the heavy materials used in these systems,these systems tend to leave projectile material deformed when reclaimed.The projectile material is deformed particularly in the case whereplastic projectiles, or ‘BBs are used. Moreover, the collection of theplastic projectiles or BBs for their re-use has, in the past, beenproblematic.

In the last several years, new BB Gun Technology has garnered world-wideappeal in countries where governments do not allow their citizens to ownreal firearms. In these countries, the new classes of BB guns are sorealistic that the citizens that own these guns have a reasonablefacsimile of real guns. Even in countries where guns are allowed, peoplethat are real gun owners are buying BB gun type reproductions of gunsthat are too expensive, or take special licensing to own (such as forexample, automatic weapons type guns). As the technology of these gunshas advanced, the guns even have the “feel” of the real guns that theyare intended to replicate.

One class of BB guns fire 6MM plastic and Metallic ‘BBs’ or ‘pellets’ranging in weight from about 0.12 grams to 0.30 grams per BB. This classof BB Guns is designed to fire plastic BBs in an energy range of0.08-2.5 Joules. However, prior to the present invention, usersworld-wide generally fired these plastic BBs, or pellets into the openenvironment. This was because available BB Trap type units tended to besmall, and consequently could not handle the velocity associated withBBs that generate energy in the range of 0.08-2.5 Joules. Moreover,because the trapping compartments were small, they were not designed asdeceleration and reclamation devices. Furthermore, the limited designscope of these traps caused deformation of the BB material, and theresulting material failure precluded reuse of the BBs because thedeformed material jammed the gun mechanism, causing harm to the gunand/or the possibility of injury to the shooter. Accordingly, the gunusers for this class of BBs are left little recourse but to fire the BBsinto the outside environment, never to be reclaimed or reused, which notonly increases the gun user's cost but also causes pollution to theenvironment, and harms wildlife that mistakes the plastic waste materialfor food.

The indoor use of BBs has grown in popularity around the world for anumber of reasons including a desire to try to recycle the BBs. However,due to the newer guns that attempt to mimic actual firearms, the gunsexpel BBs at rates that were previously not attained. Accordingly, thetargets that might catch BBs results in BB material that is greatlydeformed when contacting the systems designed to catch them at thesehigh velocities. Moreover, without a well-designed capture device, ittakes great effort to locate and reclaim the wasted material.

Another problem is that the currently available targeting, systems havebeen unsatisfactory. The targeting systems have generally not changed inmany decades, requiring the shooter to walk back and forth to and fromthe target to manually refresh the target with a new one, and then toreturn to the shooting area to start over. This interruption greatlydisturbs the concentration of the shooter, and limits the overall timeand quality of the experience. Thus, there is a need for being able toremotely scroll a target to a fresh target face in a continuous manner(on demand), and also to capture the BB material with no deformation sothat the BB material is ready to immediately reuse, or recycle.

In other words, there is a need for a continuous scrolling targetassembly which is remotely controlled and resemble by the shooter up tohundreds of feet away from the target system during the course of hisshooting by striking one or more of the targets themselves, or using thesystem to safely aim at static or moving digital media images e.g.,video games, or other static or moving images of any kind that limitpaper waste and replace human and animal digital images for the realthing.

Not only can savings be made by not using paper in the targetingsystems, but users of BB guns can reduce costs by attempting torecapture the BB material. However, in the past the deformation of theBB material that resulted from the BBs striking the target made theseattempts futile. If systems were available that resulted in littledeformation of the BB material, they tended to be systems that werefixed permanently in one position, thereby precluding the shooter fromchanging locales. Thus, there is a need for the users of these :BB Gunsto benefit from a multi-functional and portable system that uses thelatest lightweight ballistics resistant fabrics and composite framematerials that allows for a system that can be used for either indoor oroutdoor shooting practice, yet at the same time increases the re-use ofBB material by limiting spoil of material. Moreover, there is a need fora system that at the same time as providing an enhanced shootingpractice, it allows for safe use in both indoor and outdoorenvironments.

Furthermore, there is a need for enhancing the BB gun user shootingexperience by having an ability to replace a rear panel deflectionelement with other elements of different material types, such astransparent ballistic resistant material.

It is to be appreciated that such targets, for use with this class ofnew 0.08-2.5 joule BB guns, must be rugged in order that repeated impactby the BB projectile does not cause deformation and or failure of boththe BB material or of the deflection elements. Accordingly, there is aneed for a system that can handle repeated impacts.

To the inventor's knowledge, there exists a paucity of targeting systemsthat are available that can handle the desired traits of deceleration ofBB materials, material deformation avoidance, as well as BB materialpreservation for reuse and recycling. New materials and the advances inmaterial science provide an avenue for advancing system designs thatemploy a new top down approach that results in inexpensive integratedsystems. It is with these considerations in mind that the present systemwas invented.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In an embodiment, the present invention solves the problems noted aboveby providing a projectile capturing system. In an embodiment, theprojectile capturing system has specifically angled, high tensile, finecoated mesh deflection elements that absorb the initial bow shock waveenergy from a fired projectile. Through a stepped process of deflection,the deflection elements gently terminate the progression of a firedprojectile without leaving any damage to the projectile itself.

In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to a targetattachment housing and material collection device which is economical toproduce with five basic materials. In an embodiment., the presentinvention relates to a system that is simple to construct and/or operateand highly mobile because it is lightweight.

In an embodiment, there is a scrolling target assembly that can beattached to the face of the housing. Additionally, in an embodiment, thehousing assembly, in accordance with the present invention, may beutilized as a holder for a conventional-type paper target and providethe same functionality of decelerating the projectile for reuse andrecycling with no deformation after passing through the paper-typetarget.

In an aspect of the present invention, a projectile suppression andreclamation device is provided that includes a target housing withfollow on dependent deceleration deflection elements configured offlexible light weight shock wave energy absorbing materials that areangled in a downward direction behind the target face. In an embodiment,the deflection elements made of flexible fiberglass mesh or Kevlarmaterial acts as the housing back wall so that the flexible meshmaterial absorbs and deflects the projectile downward to the nextdeflection element of the process when struck by a projectile.

In an embodiment, the materials used in this integrated system arelightweight fiberglass or Kevlar mesh fabrics, and lightweight plastic,composite or metallic frame materials. The system is portable, durable,and scalable in size to accommodate as many shooting applications aspossible per customer specification. The scrolling target system isscalable in width, height, depth, as well as paper roll size and targetface size per customer specification. The continuous scrolling targetsystem is powered by either AC and/or DC power for indoor use and/oroutdoor use. Accordingly, in an embodiment, the system can either runoff the power in a socket or use battery power to run remote controlmotors to turn paper rolls to the next target face per customerspecification. Moreover, it is contemplated and therefore within thescope of the invention that an alternative source of power may be usedsuch as solar power, wind power, or some other power source to allow thetarget to scroll. In an embodiment, the target scrolling is controlledby the shooter remotely with a hand held remote control device atdistances specified by the customer.

A single replaceable deflection element acts to absorb, deflect, theprojectile downward as it is angled rearwardly, downwardly as a slopinghousing back wall and at the same time forms the rear impact area forthe target face opening.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of the housing assembly andspecifically, the frame supports as shown in FIG. 8;

FIG. 2 is a front prospective view of projectile deflection elements asthey would appear assembled separate from the other housing elements asshown in FIG. 8;

FIG. 3 is a fragmentary, side isometric view of the projectiledeflection elements describing the deceleration process of theprojectile suppression and reclamation system shown in shown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 4 is a side sectional view taken along plane of FIG. 8;

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the composite mesh fabric deflectionelements constituting the interior of the projectile materialreclamation platform housing of FIG. 8:

FIG. 6 is A) a front elevated view of the remote controlled continuousscrolling target assembly, B) hand held remote controller and C)continuous roll of joined target faces, embodying the present inventionand used in the assembly of FIG. 8;

FIG. 7 is a perspective, exploded view of the remote controlledcontinuous scrolling target assembly with the target face roll mountingunits, shown in FIG. 6; and

FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of a projectile material reclamationplatform assembly embodying the present invention;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In an embodiment, the invention will be described with reference to thefigures. It should be understood, that this description is in no waymeant to limit the invention but merely describes many of the featuresof the present invention. FIG. 8 shows one embodiment of the inventionwith many of the features that are described herein and comprises man ofthe aspects that are described in FIGS. 1 to 7.

Accordingly, in an embodiment, the projectile reclamation platformassembly 10 is shown in FIG. 1. It should be noted that all of theelements that are shown in FIG. 1 are known generically as framesupports, however, when a particular frame support number is identified,it may be given further modifiers to identify the position where theframe support is in the projectile reclamation platform assembly 10.With this in mind, the projectile reclamation platform assembly 10includes vertical frame supports 1 and horizontal bottom frame supports2, 3, and 4 and horizontal top frame supports 5, 6, and 7, top angularframe supports 8, and back horizontal frame support 9. Frame supports 1,2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 are held together and form the shape of theprojectile reclamation platform assembly 10 by frame corner supports 11.In an embodiment, the front of the projectile reclamation platformassembly 10 is made up of frame supports 4, 1, 11, and 7 and the back ofthe projectile reclamation platform assembly 10 is made up of framesupports 3, 1, 11, 5, and 9.

In an embodiment, and as shown in FIG. 1, all, of the frame supports aremade of PVC pipe and frame supports 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 may bemale PVC pipe that fits into female PVC pipe frame corner supports 11.In an embodiment, the PVC pipe comprised of the frame supports may beleft unglued so that the projectile reclamation platform assembly 10 canbe easily assembled and disassembled as necessary. Alternatively, gluemay be used so as to create a more permanent projectile reclamationplatform assembly 10 that cannot be easily disassembled. It should bereadily understood that other frame support materials can be used suchas metal, other plastics, hard rubber, wood or any other material thatprovides sufficient structural stability so that the projectilereclamation platform assembly 10 can be used for its intended purpose ofreclaiming projectiles.

As shown in FIG. 1, the angle 12, which is made by the intersection oftop angular frame supports 8 and two of the vertical frame supports 1should be on the order of about 115° to 160°. Alternatively and/orpreferably, the angle 12 should be on the order of about 120° to 155°.Alternatively and/or preferably, the angle 12 should be on the order ofabout 125° to 140°. Alternatively and/or preferably, the angle 12 shouldbe on the order of about 140° to 160°. The angle will be discussed morein connection with FIGS. 2 and 3.

In FIG. 1, frame support joining means 13 provides a means of attachingtop angular frame supports 8 and two of the vertical frame supports 1.In an embodiment, joining means 13 may comprise a hole and a screw orbolt to be inserted through each of top angular frame supports 8 intothe back vertical frame support 1. The joining means 13 may comprise anaccompanying nut or thread, and washers that allow the connection of topangular frame supports 8 and two of the vertical frame supports 1.Alternatively, in other embodiments, male and female parts may allow theconnection of top angular frame supports 8 and two of the vertical framesupports 1. The use of bolts and/or screws, nuts and washers or of maleand female parts allows the rapid and easy disassembly and reassembly ofthe projectile reclamation platform assembly 10. Alternatively, otherembodiments allow a more permanent connection of top angular framesupports 8 and two of the vertical frame supports 1such as by glue, bywelding, soldering, by fusing plastics, rubbers, metals or by any othermeans known to those of ordinary skill in the art.

Although not shown explicitly in FIG. 1, it should be understood thathook and loop fastener material (VELCRO®, Manchester, N.H.) may bepresent on some or all of the frame supports shown in FIG. 1 allowingthe attachment of deflection panels (discussed below). Hook and loopfastener material may be placed strategically on the frame supports soas to allow deflection panels to be attached so that they can be easilyattached and detached yet at the same time be attached sufficientlystrongly so that the deflection panels have sufficient structuralstability and at the same time sufficiently pliability so that thedeflection panels are able to deflect the projectiles withoutdeformation.

In FIG. 2, deflection panels platform assembly 20 is shown. It should beunderstood that many of the elements that are shown in FIG. 2 are knowngenerically as deflection panel, however, when a particular deflectionpanel number is identified, it may be given further modifiers toidentify the position where the deflection panel is in the deflectionpanels platform assembly 20. The deflection panels, in an embodiment,are made from coated mesh fiberglass or Kevlar fabric materials.Generally, it is desired that the deflection panels be largelytransparent allowing on to see through the deflection panels platformassembly 20.

In one embodiment, deflection panels platform assembly 20 is designed sothat it is slightly smaller than projectile reclamation platformassembly 10 and can fit inside of projectile reclamation platformassembly 10. Note that the shape of deflection panels platform assembly20 (in FIG. 2) is designed so that it fits inside of certain of theframe supports of projectile reclamation platform assembly 10 (in FIG.1). Seems 24 are designed to fit on the inside of vertical framesupports 1 with front deflection panel 21 designed to fit in the spacethat is defined by horizontal bottom frame support 4, two of thevertical frame supports 1 and horizontal top frame support 7.

In an embodiment, deflection panels platform assembly 20 may be designedso that it is slightly larger than projectile reclamation platformassembly 10 and can fit over projectile reclamation platform assembly10. In this embodiment, the shape of deflection panels platform assembly20 (in FIG. 2) is designed so that it fits over certain of the framesupports of projectile reclamation platform assembly 10 (in FIG. 1).Seems 24 can be designed to fit over vertical frame supports 1 withfront deflection panel 21 designed to fit in the space that is definedby horizontal bottom frame support 4, two of the vertical frame supports1 and horizontal top frame support 7.

Front deflection panel 21 has an opening 23 that is the entrance pointfor projectiles. Side panel 22 and the corresponding side panel (on theopposite side of the deflection panels platform assembly 20, which isnot shown in FIG. 2) are not rectangular in shape but are designed tofit over the frame supports that are defined by horizontal bottom framesupport 2, two vertical frame supports 1, and top angular frame support8. Opening 23 is of a size that allows projectiles that enter the systemto hit the back top deflection panel 31 (see FIG. 3). Accordingly, angle12 (shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3) is of an angle that allows back topdeflection panel 31 to be at a position that all projectiles that enterthe system through opening 23 hit back top deflection panel 31.

In FIG. 3, the path of a projectile is shown as paths 32, 33, 35, 37,and 38. In particular, a projectile (and in this example, a BB) that isfired from a gun enters through opening 23 hitting top back deflectionpanel 31 causing the projectile to deflect to path 33, which then hitsback deflection panel 34, causing the BB to deflect to path 35, whereinthe BB subsequently hits bottom deflection panel 36 causing the BB todeflect to path 37, wherein it subsequently hits front deflection panel21, deflecting the BB on path 38, wherein it subsequently hits interiordeflection panel 39. After hitting interior deflection panel 39, the BBeventually rests by gravity on bottom deflection panel 36. In anembodiment, bottom deflection panel might be sloped downwardly to anoptional center drain 26 (shown in FIGS. 2 and 3) so that the BBs areable to be collected through conduit 25. In an alternate embodiment,drain 26 and conduit 25 may not be present and the BBs can be collectedfrom bottom deflection panel 36 simply be disassembling some of the hookand loop fastener material (or alternatively, a zipper, buttons, clothties or other method of fastening), collecting the projectiles,reattaching the hook and loop fastener material to seal the system andconsequently, re-tiring projectiles into the system. In one embodiment,the conduit 25 may go to a container that collects the projectiles in acontainer.

Angle 12 (as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) is not only ideally suited to allowthe deflection of the BB to the back deflection panel 34, but it hasalso been designed so that projectiles that hit the top deflection panel31 are not deformed when the projectile encounters the top deflectionpanel 31. By careful study and a plurality of iterations, the idealangle was found that allows projectiles that hit the top deflectionpanel 31 to not be deformed when the projectile encounters the topdeflection panel 31

It should be understood that the deflection panels described above withreference to FIGS. 2 and 3 contain hook and loop fastener material atseems 24 so that they can be attached to the hook and loop fastenermaterial that is present on the frame supports (as shown in FIG. 1). Theamount of hook and loop material can be determined by the energy of theincoming projectile (which is determined by the mass and velocity of theincoming projectile). If larger projectiles at higher velocities areused, more hook and loop fastener material is required to maintain theintegrity of the deflection panels platform assembly 20. Slower andlesser mass projectiles will require less hook and loop fastenermaterial. In any event, one embodiment has sufficient hook and loopfastener material to handle the vast, majority of projectiles to befired at the system. Other configurations may provide more strength suchas single bags that are sewed together. Alternatively, it iscontemplated that a single bag may be used that is seem-less. When thedeflection element material is made from Kevlar, the strength is suchthat most common projectiles from weapons systems will be stopped.

In one embodiment, the system is designed for projectile particles thatare moving at velocities of 100 ft./sec to 600 ft./sec or alternativelyat velocities of 150 ft./sec to 550 ft./sec or alternatively atvelocities of 200 ft./sec to 500 ft./sec or alternatively at velocitiesof 300 ft./sec to 450 ft./sec.

It should be noted that the interior deflection panel 39 prevents theprojectile when it is traveling on path 38 from hitting top deflectionpanel 31 again preventing the projectile from being expelled fromdeflection panels platform assembly 20 through opening 23 (and returningin a direction that is directly opposite path 32 to the shooter). Ifangle 301 is less than about 90°, the projectile is deflected downwardsan eventually the projectile with rest on bottom deflection panel 36. Ifangle 301 is more than about 90°, the projectile will be deflected on anupwardly moving trajectory and may again be expelled from deflectionpanels platform assembly 20 through opening 23. The size (both thelength and width) of the interior deflection panel 39 is sufficient soas to minimize the risk of the projectile that is on path 38 frommissing interior deflection panel 39 and be expelled from the systemthrough opening 23. In an embodiment, the width of the interiordeflection panel 39 is substantially the same as the width of theprojectile reclamation platform assembly 10 the same as horizontalbottom frame support 4 in FIG. 1).

In one embodiment, opening 23 is designed to be of a size to accommodatea target (discussed later). Opening 23 should be sufficiently large sothat there is little risk of a shooter missing the opening 23.Accordingly, the size of opening 23 should be dependent upon thedistance from which the shooter is to fire projectiles at the system(i.e., the further the distance from the target, the larger the opening23 should be). Other factors that may be used to determine the sizeinclude the size and velocity of the projectiles that are beingpropelled at the system.

The size of the system can be any of a plurality of sizes to suit theshooting application for which the system is to be used. For example, inone embodiment, the vertical frame supports may be on the order of abouttour to eight feet in length, with the horizontal frame supports on theorder of two to six feet. In a variation, the vertical frame supportsmay be on the order of about five to seven feet in length, with thehorizontal frame supports on the order of two to five feet. In avariation, the vertical frame supports may be on the order of about sixfeet in length, with the horizontal frame supports on the order of twoto three feet.

In an embodiment, the size of the system may he such that it is able toaccommodate a plurality of shooters. This embodiment may prove to beparticularly useful at shooting ranges, particularly, if there islimited, amount of space and/or there are products nearby that one wantsto avoid hitting.

FIG. 4 shows a cross sectional side view of the system where theprojectile reclamation platform assembly 10 from FIG. 1 can be seen aswell as some of the hook and loop fastener material. Moreover, both thecenter drain 26 and the conduit 25 for collection of BBs is shown. Hookand loop attachment points 41 allows the attachment of interiordeflection element 39 to the side deflection panels (see FIG. 5). Asshown in FIG. 4, it is sometimes desired that interior deflection panel39 be somewhat droopy so that it has some give to it when projectileshit interior deflection panel 39, thereby facilitating the projectilespath to the bottom of the system (e.g., for example in center drain 26and subsequently passing through conduit 25). In one embodiment, conduit25 might be sufficiently long on length and situated at the correctangle so that the projectiles will pass back to the shooter where theprojectiles can be easily recouped. In an embodiment, the otherdeflection panels may also be sufficiently taut yet sufficiently droopyso that the ideal deflection and deceleration of the projectiles occurs.

It should be noted that in FIG. 4, top angular frame support 8 is setback 42 a few inches from the very front of the projectile reclamationplatform assembly 10 so that it does not rest flush with the front framecorner support 11. This set back 42 ensures that a projectile enteringthe system encounters the top deflection panel 31 later preventing theprojectile from being expelled from the system. It should be noted thatFIG. 3 shows a different embodiment wherein the setback 42 shown in FIG.4 is not present. In an embodiment, the height of the opening 23 can beadjusted downwardly so that a projectile entering the system encountersthe top deflection panel 31 later preventing the projectile from beingexpelled from the system upon striking the top deflection panel.

FIG. 5 shows an exploded view of the various deflection elements. Frontdeflection panel is 21 with target opening 23 can be combined with sidedeflection panels 22 and rear deflection panels 51 and/or 53 as well ascenter drain 26 and interior deflection panel 39. The rear deflectionpanel 51 is shown with composite mesh and rear deflection panel 53 has aplastic transparent material 54 that serves as the top deflection panel,it should be noted that either one of rear deflection panels 51 or 53can be used. In an embodiment, the plastic transparent material 54 issoft enough but also strong enough so as to maintain its integrity, yetat the same time the angle is ideally suited (i.e., angle 12 as bestshown in FIG. 3) so that the projectiles that hit the top deflectionpanel are not damaged. All of the deflection elements in FIG. 5 areshown with hook and loop fastener material 55 that allows the attachmentof the deflection elements to the projectile reclamation platformassembly 10. In an embodiment, the deflection elements are attached tothe interior of the projectile reclamation platform assembly 10 so thatthe frame supports occur on the outside. When the frame supports are onthe outside, the chances of damage of the projectiles is reduced becausethey will not encounter the frame supports. In an alternate embodiment,the deflection panels may be attached to the outside of the projectilereclamation platform assembly 10. In an alternate embodiment, although aplurality of deflection panels are shown that can be attached to theprojectile reclamation platform assembly 10, it should be understoodthat the number of deflection panels can be reduced to as few as onepanel and can have any number from one to seven deflection panels. In anembodiment where there is one panel, it may be similar to a mesh bagthat will attach to the projectile reclamation platform assembly 10.

In an embodiment, 20×20 nominal mesh count coated fiberglass ‘no see um’screen can be used. This mesh generally is woven from permanent glassyarn and coated with a protective vinyl to ensure strength flexibilityand durability. Other coated composite Kevlar mesh materials forsupersonic ballistic applications can be used per customerspecification. For application of material involving 0.12-0.30 gram 6MMplastic or metallic projectile materials operating at 0.08-2.5 joules ata minimum distance from the target of 3 meters, this materialapplication has a burst strength of 216 psi, a percentage of elongationof 45%. Accordingly, it is desired that this material be sufficientlyimpact resistant to absorb the impact of fired projectiles withoutcracking or a penetrating deflection.

FIG. 6A-C show a A) a front elevated view of a remote controlledcontinuous scrolling target assembly 64, B) a hand held remotecontroller 63 and C) a continuous roll of joined target faces 62. InFIG. 6A, remote controlled roller cylinder motor shaft 60 fits into thecenter of the paper rolls 61 from the continuous roll of joined targetfaces 62 allowing the remote control 63 to control the remote controlledroller cylinder motor shaft 60 thereby rotating to the next target onthe continuous roll of joined target faces 62. As shown in FIG. 6A, oneor two remote controlled motors 66 are mounted vertically on each end ofpanel 67. The one or two remote controlled motors 66 may workindependently or in unison to move the continuous roll of joined targetfaces 62 to the next target. In an embodiment in addition to the one ortwo remote controlled motors 66 working together or independently, theremote controlled roller cylinder motor shafts 60 may move in either aclockwise or counterclockwise direction depending on which side of thecontinuous roll of joined target faces 62 is pulled per customerspecification. Accordingly, in an embodiment, the continuous roll ofjoined target faces 62 can move in either direction getting a targetfrom either side of the continuous roll of joined target faces 62.

Another embodiment of the scrolling target system is that it may beenclosed in a housing of ABS plastic with all components the scrollingtarget system positioned within the housing to limit the risk ofprojectiles striking those externally mourned components yet at the sametime providing protection from weather elements,. The front of thehousing may in one embodiment be opened to replace paper rolls andclosed again or to replace other components. The housing may alsooptionally be detached from the platform to increase its portability forany sport shooting, application. The removability of the housing allowsthe use of either BBs or supersonic projectiles at most typical indooror outdoor shooting range venues, or any other venue. It is contemplatedthat other materials beyond plastics may he used depending on thesituation. For example, if one is simply trying to protect the scrollingtarget system, various metals such as titanium, plastics, hard rubbers,polymeric or various composite materials may he used.

The remote controlled continuous scrolling target assembly 64 isdesigned so that the remote controller can be at quite a distance fromthe target assembly yet successful move anew target in from of opening23 from either side of the continuous roll of joined target faces 62. Inan embodiment, the distance should work from at least the distance thatthe shooter is from the target and preferably from a further distance.Thus, depending on the velocity of the projectiles, the remote controldevice should work from more than 100 feet and preferably more than 200feet. In the case of real bullets, the range of the remote control mightbe significantly longer per customer specification.

In an embodiment, the continuous roll of joined target faces 62 isdesigned to fit so that each target fits in opening 23 (see FIGS. 2 and8). When a shooter propels a projectile at the target, the projectilepierces the target and then follows the path as shown in FIG. 3.

In FIG. 6A, the platform 65 containing the one of two remote controlledmotors 66 comprises holes 65 that allow the attachment of the remotecontrolled continuous scrolling target assembly 64 to he mounted on theprojectile reclamation platform assembly 10. Any of a plurality of knownmethods may be used to attach the remote controlled continuous scrollingtarget assembly 64 to the projectile reclamation platform assembly 10including nuts and bolts, screws, nails, glue, or any other method knownto those of ordinary skill in the art. In one embodiment, nuts and boltsare used allowing the continuous roll of joined target these 62 andremote controlled continuous scrolling target assembly 64 to be easilyassembled and disassembled from the projectile reclamation platformassembly 10. In an embodiment, the projectile reclamation platformassembly 10 contains holes in it that are lined up with the holes 65 onthe platform 67 that are designed to allow the continuous roll of joinedtarget faces 62 and remote controlled continuous scrolling targetassembly 64 to fit. The platform 65 may also contain either or both ofto battery pack 69 and/or an outlet 68 allowing the remote controlledcontinuous scrolling target assembly 64 to run off of either DC or ACpower (or both). In an alternate embodiment, it is contemplated thatsolar panels and a storage means (for example a battery) might be usedallowing the targeting assembly to work. Other forms of renewable energymay also be used (for example, wind power) to store energy and allow thetargeting assembly to work.

Although the remote is shown as an independent element in FIG. 6B, itshould be understood that the remote may be associated with theshooter's gun. In one embodiment, the remote may be easily fixed to thegun and also just as easily removed allowing maximal flexibility to theshooter.

FIG. 7 shows an embodiment of how the remote controlled continuousscrolling target assembly 64 and the continuous roll of joined targetfaces 62 might be joined together. Of note in FIG. 7 are the rollerguides 71 which ideally fit into the center of the paper rolls 61 and inturn fit into the remote controlled roller cylinder motor shafts 60.After a target has received a plurality of hits, when the remotecontrolled roller cylinder motor shafts 60 rotate, the roller guides 71also turn which consequently turns the target, allowing the next targetto be presented to the shooter. Clamps 72 are of a size that they can besecured to vertical frame supports 1 (see, for example, FIG. 8). Itshould be noted although that other means of attaching the continuousroll of joined target faces 62 to the vertical frame supports 1 arecontemplated and therefore within the scope of the invention. Forexample, a simple nut and bolt system or screws or other means known tothose of ordinary skill of attaching the continuous roll of joinedtarget faces 62 to the vertical frame supports 1 are contemplated.

FIG. 8 shows many of the embodiments that are discussed in FIGS. 1-7. Itshould be noted that in lieu of the target from the continuous roll ofjoined target faces 62 that appears in front of opening 23, one mightinstead have a video screen (television or monitor) 83 disposed behindthe top part of rear deflection panels 51 and/or 53. In an embodiment,rear deflection panel 53 may have a plastic associated with it that isable to discern the location of a BB that hits it (for example, it mayhave a technology similar to a smart phone that is able to discernpositionally where a BB that is propelled at it has contacted theplastic surface). Accordingly, when a video screen 83 is disposed behindthe top part of the rear deflection panel, a video game or other digitalmedia may be present on the video screen 83 that is able to discernwhether or not an object (either stationary or moving) in the video gameis hit. For example, war-type video games, police type video games,hunting-type video games, or other shooting-type video games may hepresent on the video screen 83.

In an embodiment, the present invention relates to an application whereelectronic components (and sensors) from the gun of a ‘first personshooter video game’ are integrated into the housing of a live fireplastic BB Gun, where the trigger mechanism is directly linked, to thetrigger on the BB gun. The plastic projectiles fire in synchronizationwith the virtual bullets but are deflected downward within the system,while the video game registers the continuance of the projectile intothe game providing a closed loop simulation between virtual game andlive fire realism.

In all cases, the projectiles are recycled with minimal damage to them.

The video screen 83 can be attached to the system by any of a pluralityof means known to those of ordinary skill in the art. For example, nutsand bolts, clamps and/or screws can be used to secure the video screen83 to the system.

Although the continuous roll of joined target faces 62 shows a standardtarget, it should be understood that other types of targets can he used.For example, a target with the profile of an animal or human or anyother target may be used. In one embodiment, the target may be a singletarget with the profile of an animal or human or any other target thatmay be manually attached over the target opening 23. In an embodiment,the scrolling target system can be any size so as to accommodate anytype of munitions.

The mount on the system housing for a video screen or monitor 83 isscalable to fit any size monitor fixed in either horizontal or verticalposition per customer specification, and to project digital images fromany source the monitor can project those images per customerspecification, as for example, tactical training use for military orpolice forces to practice fire into the opening of the system at imagesand in configurations per customer specification.

In an embodiment, a computer may be associated, with the monitor 83 thatallows the one to keep track of the number of “hits” of an object ashooter has. The computer may also store information so that a shootercan ascertain if he is improving (for example, a graph may be createdshowing the shooters “tally” over time for the shooter's “hits” on atarget.

In an embodiment the system may be placed on wheels and made eithermotorized or un-motorized for easy portability. Thus, when eithermotorized or un-motorized wheels are added, in one embodiment, thesystem may be modified slightly so as to allow VIPs to move arounddangerous war zones without the danger of getting hit by projectiles.For example, if a president or VIP is at an airport where the enemy mayhave 360° access to targeting the president or VIP, the system wouldprovide protection when the president or VIP moves. In an embodiment,the opening could be modified so that no projectiles can enter thesystem. The system may also be modified to allow the barrel of asoldier's weapon to protrude from the system to allow the soldier tofire his weapon while at the same time eliminating or severely limitingthe ability of projectiles from entering the system. In a variation, thesystem may be increased in size as necessary so as to provide protectionfor motorcycles, bicycles, cars, jeeps, tanks, or other vehicles.

Accordingly, in an embodiment, the present invention relates to aprojectile collection and/or recycling device comprising: a projectilereclamation platform assembly having one or more frame supports, and adeflection panels platform assembly having one or more deflectionelements, wherein the one or more deflection elements are attached toand supported by the one or more frame supports. In one variation, theprojectile collection and/or recycling device comprises at least 3 framesupport elements and at least 3 deflection elements. In a variation, theprojectile collection and/or recycling device further comprises aninterior deflection element that is disposed on the interior of thedeflection panels platform assembly.

In a variation, the projectile collection and/or recycling device hasone or more deflection elements that are comprised of a composite meshand/or Kevlar. In a variation, the projectile collection and/orrecycling device having one or more deflection elements are attached tothe one or more frame supports by hook and loop fastener material. In avariation, the projectile collection and/or recycling device comprisingthe one or more frame supports is made of one or more of plastic, wood,metal, or rubber. In one embodiment, the one or more frame supportscomprise pvc (polyvinyl chloride).

In one variation, the one or more deflection elements comprise acomposite mesh, the one or more frame supports comprise pvc, and the oneor more deflection elements are attached to the one or more framesupports by hook and loop fastener material.

In an embodiment, the projectile is a BB, or a bullet. In an alternateembodiment, the projectile is a BB.

In an embodiment, the projectile collection and/or recycling devicecomprises one or more of a target and a video monitor. In an embodiment,the target is part of a continuous roll of joined target faces.

In an embodiment, the projectile collection and/or recycling devicecomprise(s) six deflection elements that are attached to and supportedby the one or more frame supports, the six deflection elementscomprising a top and rear deflection element, two side deflectionelements, a front deflection element having an opening through whichprojectiles can be propelled, a bottom deflection element, and aninterior deflection element, wherein the top and rear deflection elementare disposed at the top and rear of the projectile collection and/orrecycling device, the two side deflection elements are disposed on eachside of the projectile collection and/or recycling device, the bottomdeflection element is disposed on the bottom of the projectilecollection and/or recycling device and the interior deflection elementis present on the interior of the projectile collection and/or recyclingdevice.

In an alternate embodiment, the projectile collection and/or recyclingdevice comprises fifteen frame supports, the fifteen frame support beingfour vertical frame supports and four horizontal bottom frame supports,four horizontal top frame supports, two top angular frame supports, andone back horizontal frame support. In one variation, the fifteen framesupports are operationally connected to and held in place by framecorner supports. In one variation, the four vertical frame supports, thefour horizontal bottom frame supports, and the four horizontal top framesupports form a substantially cubic or rectangular cubic structure. In avariation, the two angular frame supports are attached on opposite facesof the substantially cubic or rectangular cubic structure, with one endof the two angular frame supports attached to two separate back verticalframe supports at a position that forms an angle in a downwardsdirection with the back vertical support of between about 140=20 toabout 160° and the other end of the two angular frame supports attachedto two separate side horizontal top frame supports. In a variation, theback horizontal frame support is attached to the two separate backvertical frame supports at a position close to the position where thetwo angular frame supports are attached to the two separate backvertical frame supports.

In a variation, the deflection elements are joined to the fifteen framesupports by hook and loop fastener material. In a variation, the bottomdeflection element further comprises either a drain or a conduit, orboth a drain and a conduit that allows for easy collection ofprojectiles.

In an embodiment, the invention relates to a continuous scrolling targetsystem comprising a plurality of targets on one or more rolls. Thecontinuous scrolling target system may be powered by AC and/or DC. Thecontinuous scrolling target system may also be optionally powered byremote control.

In a variation, the continuous scrolling target system comprises tworolls, the two rolls being at a distance from each other that allows thepresentation to a shooter of a single target. In an embodiment, at leastone of the two rolls has a plurality of targets that when the rolls arerotated in the same direction, they present a new target to the shooter.In a variation, the two rolls can be rotated in either a clockwise orcounterclockwise direction. In one variation, the rolls are rotated byremote controlled roller cylinder motor shafts that are operationallyconnected to the rolls.

In one embodiment, the target is a traditional bulls-eye target. In avariation, other targets may be present such as a profile of an animalor human.

In an embodiment, the system may be about 2 to 50 lbs. in weight, orabout 5 to 35 lbs. in weight or about 6 to 20 lbs. in weight or about 7lbs. to 10 lbs. total. It should be noted that the weight in someembodiments may be significantly higher if a very large system is made(for example, one that could be used around a tank or an any hospital(like a MASH unit).

In an embodiment, the projectiles bow shock wave may be dispersedthrough the breathable mesh material and due to the color of thematerial may leave a fingerprint of the mesh material patterning on theprojectile so projectiles can be easily identified as having been usedbut not being deformed. Accordingly, one can quickly identify if theprojectiles can be recycled and/or reused. In an embodiment, this woulddeter users of the system from passing projectile material to otherusers as never having been used before.

It is to be understood that the above is merely a description of thepreferred embodiment and that various modifications could be made by oneskilled in the art without departing from the concept of the inventiondisclosed therein. Moreover, it should be understood that it iscontemplated that any feature that is described above can be combinedwith any other feature. When ranges are discussed, any number that maynot be explicitly disclosed but fits within the range is contemplated asan endpoint for the range. The scope of protection to be afforded is tobe determined by the claims which follow and the breadth ofinterpretation which the law allows.

1. A projectile collection and/or recycling device comprising: aprojectile reclamation platform assembly having one or more framesupports, and a deflection panels platform assembly having one or moredeflection elements; wherein the one or more deflection elements areattached to and supported by the one or more frame supports.
 2. Theprojectile collection and/or recycling device of claim 1, wherein theone or more deflection elements are comprised of a composite mesh and/orKevlar,
 3. The projectile collection and/or recycling device of claim 1,wherein the one or more frame supports comprise one or more of plastic,wood, metal, or rubber.
 4. The projectile collection and/or recyclingdevice of claim 3, wherein the one or more frame supports comprise pvc.5. The projectile collection and/or recycling, device of claim 1,wherein the one or more deflection elements are attached to the one ormore frame supports by book and loop fastener material.
 6. Theprojectile collection and/or recycling device of claim 1, wherein theprojectile is a BB.
 7. The projectile collection and/or recycling deviceof claim 1, comprising at least 3 frame support elements and at least 3deflection elements.
 8. The projectile collection and/or recyclingdevice of claim 7, further comprising an interior deflection elementthat is disposed on the interior of the deflection panels platformassembly.
 9. The projectile collection and/or recycling device of claim1, further comprising one or more of a target and a video monitor. 10.The projectile collection and/or recycling device of claim 9, whereinthe target is part of continuous roll of joined target faces.
 11. Theprojectile collection and/or recycling device of claim 1, wherein theone or more deflection elements comprise a composite mesh, the one ormore frame supports comprise pvc, and the one or more deflectionelements are attached to the one or more frame supports by hook and loopfastener material.
 12. The projectile collection and/or recycling deviceof claim 1, wherein six deflection elements are attached to andsupported by the one or more frame supports, the six deflection elementscomprising a top and rear deflection element, two side deflectionelements, a front deflection element having an opening through whichprojectiles can be propelled, a bottom deflection element, and aninterior deflection element, wherein the top and rear deflection elementbeing disposed at the top and rear of projectile collection and/orrecycling device, the two side deflection elements being, disposed oneach side of the projectile collection and/or recycling device, thebottom deflection element being disposed on the bottom of the projectilecollection and/or recycling device and the interior deflection elementbeing present on the interior of the projectile collection and/orrecycling device.
 13. The projectile collection and/or recycling deviceof claim 12, comprising fifteen frame supports; four vertical framesupports and four horizontal bottom frame supports, four horizontal topframe supports, two top angular frame supports, and one back horizontal,frame support:, the fifteen frame supports being operationally connectedby and held in place by frame corner supports, wherein the four verticalframe supports, the four horizontal bottom frame supports, and the fourhorizontal top frame supports form a substantially cubic or rectangularcubic structure, wherein the two angular frame supports are attached onopposite faces of the substantially cubic or rectangular cubicstructure, with one end of the two angular frame supports attached totwo separate back vertical frame supports at a position that forms anangle in a downwards direction with the back vertical support of betweenabout 140° to about 160° and the other end of the two angular framesupports attached to two separate side horizontal top frame supports,wherein the back horizontal frame support is attached to the twoseparate back vertical frame supports at a position close to theposition where the two angular frame supports are attached to the twoseparate hack vertical frame supports.
 14. The projectile collectionand/or recycling device of claim 13, wherein the deflection elements arejoined to the fifteen frame supports by hook and loop fastener material.15. The projectile collection and/or recycling device of claim 14,wherein the bottom deflection element further comprises either a drainor a conduit, or both a drain and a conduit that allows for easycollection of the projectiles.
 16. A continuous scrolling target systemcomprising a plurality of targets on one or more rolls, wherein thecontinuous scrolling target system is powered by AC and/or DC, whereinthe continuous scrolling target system is powered by remote control. 17.The continuous scrolling target system of claim 16, wherein thecontinuous scrolling target system comprises two rolls, the two rollsheld at a distance from each other that allows the presentation to ashooter of a single target, wherein at least one of the two rolls havinga plurality of targets that when the rolls are rotated in the samedirection present a new target to the shooter.
 18. The continuousscrolling target system of claim 17, wherein the two rolls can berotated in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction.
 19. Thecontinuous scrolling target system of claim 18, wherein the rolls arerotated by remote controlled roller cylinder motor shafts that areoperationally connected to the rolls.
 20. The continuous scrollingtarget system of claim 17, wherein the target is a traditional bulls-eyetarget.